You Can Now Get Naloxone To Save Lives in Yakima and Toppenish

81 people in Yakima County died of a drug overdose last year with 53 of the deaths connected to the deadly drug fentanyl. So far this year 75 people have died of overdoses. But many lives have been saved by the anti-overdose drug Naloxone being made available in vending machines in Yakima and Toppenish.

WA STATE LAW PROTECTS THOSE WHO HELP OTHERS IN AN OVERDOSE

A press release from the district says Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids including heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioid medications, when given in time. Don't be concerned about helping someone because the state's Good Samaritan Law protects anyone "who seeks medical assistance for a drug overdose against drug possession charges and protects anyone who administers Naloxone."

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TWO VENDING MACHINES OPEN IN YAKIMA AND TOPPENISH WEDNESDAY

The district wants to increase access to the life-saving drug so the district has partnered with OIC of Yakima (Opportunities Industrialization Center) on Fruitvale Blvd. and Yakamart on Fort Road in Toppenish to place the machines in those locations. Ribbon cutting ceremonies are being held Wednesday at both locations. The event in Toppenish is set for 10:00 am and in Yakima at 12:00 pm.

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED CARRYING NALOXONE TO SAVE A LIFE?

“The Naloxone vending machines increase access to Naloxone. Thank you to our partners in supporting this initiative. Our hope is that all community members understand that overdoses can happen anywhere and to anyone. If you or someone you know is at increased risk for opioid overdose, consider carrying Naloxone.” says Andre Fresco, Executive Director, Yakima Health District.

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